FAQs

Is this a school?

If you define "school" as the traditional system of memorization, teaching to the test, obey and control, emotional dependance, indifference, and siloed disconnected subjects; NO. If your definition of "school" is a place to master skills, think freely, study interconnected subjects, follow passions, build character, develop community and to truly educate by way of understanding; YES.

Apogee Liberty is a holistic, mixed-age education learning environment for ages 6 - 18. We focus on individualized academics to truly connect with young leaders in their own way and timeframe in an environment that resembles life, not a standalone traditional system designed to pump out non-thinking worker bees.

Students shape their own futures by working on hands-on projects with guidance from coaches to discover their purpose while gaining practical skills. We are structured differently than a school we have the freedom to offer holistic learning experiences tailored to the families we serve —a fresh take on education that puts the joy of learning first.

How will we know if Apogee Liberty a good fit for our family?

We understand this is a big and life changing decision for your family's future. We also understand that it can be un-nerving to step away from what normal is and do something different, because we have gone through that process. Once we embraced the thought of the cost to our boys of leaving them in the detrimental traditional system, it was an easy decision. If your family desires something more relevant, more intentional, more simplistic, with more freedom, then Apogee Liberty will align with you and your family.

Since transitioning, our boys have been far more excited to learn, happier, and far more critical thinking. They now look at the traditional system and cannot comprehend why anyone would teach that way, because of the stark difference in methodologies at Apogee.

Overall, families who thrive here are excited about project-based, hands-on learning and are open and patient to a model that looks different from traditional, teacher-led classrooms. It isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. What matters most is finding the environment where your child can grow and your family feels supported.

Our students are self-directed. They set their own goals with guidance from parents and coaches, and we work together to support them along the way. Our kids are far more capable than we give them credit for.

We also offer campus trial days for your child and family to experience a typical day, as well as family meetings to have conversations around all things Apogee. We enjoy just having a conversation about education as well, I bet you are having most of the same thoughts and questions we had before taking the next step, let us help you figure out what is best for your family.

Is Apogee Liberty accredited?

Apogee Strong is working towards and expected to be accredited in 2026. Apogee Liberty follows the nationally recognized Apogee Strong educational framework. Students will develop personal portfolios highlighting their accomplishments, and if their path determines they need a transcript or diploma for their future aspirations we will work with the parent and student to develop that plan.

How do you teach academics?

Through individualized academic plans and project-based learning that connects reading, writing, math, science, and history to real-world challenges. Academics are parent driven and coach guided with frequent check-ins to ensure the parent, student, and coach are aligned in their academic goals.

Powerful learning develops knowledge, skills, and character through purpose, agency, and mastery - practiced consistently - so students learn how to learn. It is not passive, standardized, or defined only by grades and completed assignments. It is active, challenging, relational, and connected to meaningful goals. Students are expected to think, create, practice, revise, explain, apply, and contribute.

Powerful learning balances freedom with responsibility. Students have meaningful choices and increasing ownership, while coaches maintain clear standards, appropriate structure, useful feedback, and accountability. The result is not independence without support or structure without agency, but the gradual development of capable young people who can direct their effort wisely.

This approach will first take time to un-school from the traditional system of downward directed and strictly scheduled assignments, memorization to pass a predetermined test, and artificial grades that dictate if your child is "smart." At Apogee Liberty, students learn to understand and master. They do not move on until they can explain, in their own words, the topic at hand. Not only does this approach cement understanding, but it also promotes articulate communication. The students focus quickly changes from, hurry up and get it done, because there are more assignments coming. To wait, hold on, I don't quite understand this topic yet. I need to go back, do some more research, maybe seek guidance from a coach to learn this topic.

As an example, when we first started the Apogee program and we were-unschooling their train of thought, my boys would come to me with their math work for me to review. They were so proud when they would get all or most all the answers correct, but then I would ask the question, "can you explain to me what you just did, how you did it, or why it is important to know?" Blank stare....... They couldn't, because they didn't yet fully understand. This has all changed now with Apogee and the default mindset is to understand, not just do.

Is Apogee Liberty faith-based?

We do not require a statement of faith, but our educational philosophy is based on a Christian worldview, with prayer and scripture integrated to guide students' character and understanding.

Each day includes Socratic conversation. What exactly is Socratic dialogue?

The Socratic Method encourages asking earnest questions to challenge assumptions and discover the truth. Socrates used it to help students think critically and refine their arguments. We DO NOT direct students on what or how to think. We coach students how to think through topics and relate to them in their own way of understanding the world.

This method builds confidence in speaking, sharpens persuasive skills, and fosters critical thinking about the world around them.

We use the Socratic Method to encourage deep reasoning and clear expression, helping students become confident and articulate good humans prepared to pursue life’s purpose. Apogee Liberty seeks graduates who can think independently and communicate effectively.

What about physical activity?

Kids need movement, not medication. Why it is accepted in traditional schools that kids only should get a few short times a day for recess is mindboggling. Movement, fitness and outdoor play are prioritized into each day as part of holistic health—mental, spiritual, and physical.

Can my child still participate in sports and extra-curricular activites?

Yes, you are able to dual enroll your child at a public school to participate in their sports or extra-curricular programs if desired. More information about dual enrollment can be found here, Dual Enrollment for Homeschooled Students in Iowa - Homeschool Iowa

Are cell phones allowed on campus?

This will be determined through conversation and alignment with each family of Apogee Liberty.

Overall, personal responsibility and ownership is the foundation of Apogee Liberty. The more responsibility that is shown, the more freedom that is earned.

What are behavior expectations at Apogee Liberty?

Apogee Liberty lives by a code; Honor, Integrity, Bravery, Politeness, Compassion, and Loyalty.

It is expected that everyone who is a part of Apogee Liberty lives up to this code and holds each other accountable.

What is the cost of staying on the Traditional path? Explore How Apogee Liberty can be right for your family.

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